What makes/models have internally threaded suspension strut tubes?
I want to install double-adjustable Koni RACE inserts inhe stock strut tubes of my 2014 Ford Fiesta ST for Street class autocrossing.
I found the shocks that fit. However, To install the inserts, I will need a couple sections of strut tube (2" OD, preferably') that are internally threaded, to extend my chopped stock tube and to hold the Koni's in place. These could be cut from another car's trashed strut, if it is the type that has a "gland nut" that holds the guts in.
I intend to gut my stock struts, which are crimped, and weld the threaded pieces to the top of the stock strut tubes.
My problem is locating a strut that already has these threads. I don't have a lathe ( or the machinist skills ) to machine threads.
What cars have this type of strut tube (not the crimped kind)? I tried raiding a VW/Porsche/Audi repair garage's scrap pile, but every single one of the struts were crimped.
Thanks!
Many older Toyotas use the gland nut. Not sure on the thread pitch, but the diameter of the inserts for MR2s and several generations of 70s-90s Corollas and Celicas is 43.5mm.
We've built housings using Volvo 240/740 struts. You might have to make a little sleeve to correct the ID, but they should be pretty close. Downside, those nuts are darn tight, and use a special wrench. Big Channelocks will usually do the job. Also, whenever you are working with the tube, leave the gland nut screwed in. Its super easy to distort the tube just enough to make getting the nut back in a cast iron bitch.
TR7, BMW, VW Rabbit, Ford Mustang. TR7 and early BMW use smaller diameter tubes. Bigger heavier cars use the 2"OD tubes.
Toyota Celica RA64. Don't know the specs though.
Go to NAPA and ask for one of their old strut catalogs. There's a crossreference in the back for dimensions and types and you can work backwards from there.
MK2 vws sometimes have those type of struts also.
Wow, thanks for all the suggestions so far! I will see what the napa place has to say, as well as tracking down a lead on a set of 3-series struts from a cousin of mine.
I also have a Volvo guy I can ask.
Thanks again!
